Elden Ring Nightreign’s First Network Test Plagued by Server Issues, FromSoftware Issues Apology

Elden Ring Nightreign's initial network test, currently underway, is experiencing significant server issues, preventing many players from accessing the game. IGN staff reported being unable to play for the test's first hour due to severe server problems. FromSoftware acknowledged the widespread issues, attributing them to server congestion, and apologized, encouraging players to try again later.

The limited availability of the network test—five three-hour sessions between February 14th and 17th on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S—exacerbates the frustration caused by these server problems. The schedule is as follows:

Elden Ring Nightreign Network Test Session Timings:

• February 14: 3am-6am PT / 6am-9am ET
• February 14: 7pm-10pm PT / 10pm-1am ET
• February 15: 11am-2pm PT / 2pm-5pm ET
• February 16: 3am-6am PT / 6am-9am ET
• February 16: 7pm-10pm PT / 10pm-1am ET

This test, according to Bandai Namco, is a "preliminary verification test" to evaluate the online system's performance. While it's preferable that these issues surface now rather than at the May launch, players who allocated time for the test are understandably disappointed. Hopefully, future sessions will run more smoothly.

Elden Ring Nightreign, a standalone cooperative spin-off, is set in a world parallel to 2022's Elden Ring. The network test allows three players to team up, battling new enemies, exploring a dynamic map, overcoming increasingly challenging bosses, and ultimately facing the Nightlord. The test features a three-day-and-night cycle that squads must endure.

IGN previously had hands-on time with an early build, describing Elden Ring Nightreign as "turbocharg[ing] the cautious dungeon crawls of Elden Ring into propulsive, slash ‘n’ dash speedruns." For more details, check out IGN's interview with game director Junya Ishizaki.

Elden Ring Nightreign launches May 30, 2025, priced at $40 for PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and PC (Steam).